Grade 9 Numeracy: Rational Numbers and Matrices
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Activities
Objectives
Materials
Evaluation
Project
Section 5 & 6: Adding and Subtracting Matrices and Multiplying a Matrix by a Number
SCO:A6 – Represent problem situations using matrices.
B7 – Model, solve, and create problems involving the matrix operations of addition, subtraction and scalar multiplication.
Suggested Materials:
Masters 1.5, 1.10; scientific calculator; graphing calculator (optional)
Masters 1.11
Focus: Students will estimate, calculate, and verify the product and quotient of rational numbers. Students will apply the correct order of operations when evaluating expressions with rational numbers.
Activities:
- Start by introducing a matrix and defining its components.
- Have a computer tutorial on Microsoft Excel. Let students enter in a matrix into a sheet and perform matrix addition, subtraction, and scalar multiplication on the data. The students should start their statistical analysis using the software at this point.
- Students should work on Masters 1.10 and 1.11 in the guide, and compare their work in groups
- Give an example of two matrices of different order and ask students to add them. Let students have a discussion on the problems that are present in such a situation, to see if they can construct the rule for addition and subtraction.
- Give students time for a focus group on their projects. Each student should present their spreadsheet, discuss how they got it to work, and highlight problem areas in the design.
